This Week's Itinerary...

Howdy Cozies! This week I'm making a couple of appearances for the Wayback Ridge trilogy's audio book launch. Today I'm a guest of the "Watch Out" series at Savannah Chase's site! Tomorrow I'm interviewed by fellow romantic suspense author Sarah Grimm at her Off the Keyboard blog! Come by for a discussion on favorite romance heroes - always fun!

And note that this Friday The Cozy Page will host author Laura Hogg who will be discussing her Vintage Rose titles and the Roaring Twenties! Can't wait!

A Peak into the Cave...

The last time I posted pics from my writing cave was...well, a while ago. Things have changed since then. New house, new office, and even more clutter :)

The white furniture is from my childhood bedroom suite, which my parents bought when I first started writing. I wrote so many stories on my box of a computer that it seemed that my muse lived in one of the drawers. It might still hold magic powers.... The muse is more fickle these days and inhabits a desert island with Captain Jack several months out of the year. I only get her back when the rum's gone. The Dell desktop is my buddy Roarke. When the neighbors hear my office speakers kicking, it usually mean Roarke and I are making magic together...story magic, I mean. Get your head out of the gutter ;)

The gold plaque on top of the modem is my "Never, never, never give up" adage. Words I certainly write by! My booksigning tags hang on the wall. I can't wait to hang a framed poster from the musical Wicked. Speaking of which, this bad boy at left here is my Toshiba laptop who I know as Fiyero. Since my office is an offset of mine and my husband's bedroom, I do a lot of night writing with Fiyero so I can do my music-listening through a headset. He also spends a few nights a week in bed with us. The painting above this section of the desk is my grandfather's bicentinial painting, a recent and cherished gift from my father.

Though there aren't any personal photos in the cave, my loved ones are still very much around me. For example, the geisha doll pictured with Fiyero was a gift from my sister-in-law, which she brought back from a trip to Japan. The snow globe on the other side of my stationary box was a Christmas gift from my sister several years back. There's also a small white plaque that hung in my first bedroom with the words "Amber's Room" and pink ballet slippers. Girlie girl? Why, yes indeedy! The tiger paining has significance as well - it was a gift from a fellow Auburn fan and good friend from high shool. The verse reads "Even youths grow tired and weary, and young men stumble and fall ; but those who hope in the Lord will renew their strength. They will soar on wings like eagles; they will run and not grow weary, they will walk and not be faint." Isaiah 40:30-31 followed by "War Eagle" on the bottom. Words to live by, all!

Finally, I couldn't write without one of these furry critters at my feet. My chocolate lab especially likes to keep them warm and snooze under my desk, particularly when there's a storm rolling through. The hub is currently building epic shelves to house my mountainous TBR pile. Can't wait to share them with all you Cozies! In the meantime, I'm working on proofs for the Wayback Ridge trilogy audibles. More on those as the countdown to Blackest Heart's September 7 audio book launch continues....

Audio Countdown & New Cover Alert

The countdown to Blackest Heart's audio book release has begun at AudioLark and here at Cozy! On September 7, the first book in the Wayback Ridge trilogy and 1st Place More Than Magic Novella will launch and for 24 hours only be on sale for just $2.49.

Plus, I'm sharing some new cover goodness! I had no idea Blackest Heart would be getting a new face for its audible version, but here it is, folks, as well as the blurb from AudioLark....

America’s Sweetheart, Stella Ridge has been away from Wayback for fifteen years paving her way to the top of the acting business. When a car accident leaves her physically and emotionally scarred, the only place she wants to go is home to Texas and her family’s ranch.

The changes that have taken place since her departure are enough to rock her world again. She uncovers a buried tragedy, struggles with the penetrating stares and questions from townsfolk, and comes up against an intriguing and unexpected spark with the silent cowboy and champion bull rider, Judd Black. Their wounded souls draw them together and Stella begins to realize that only in him can she find the solace she sought by leaving the bright lights of Hollywood.

I spoke about Blackest Heart and other stories in my Wayback, TX trilogy over at Aileen Harkwood's blog yesterday, where you can still enter to win a prize basket from the Wild Roses Blog Tour. And don't forget that a paperback edition of The Way Back Home anthology featuring Blackest Heart along with Abbey MacInnis's Delighting Miss Daisy and Marguerite Arotin's Return of the Prodigal Daughter is still up for grabs at Alternative Read!

Wild Roses Blog Tour: Lilly Gayle

Today we're winding up the Wild Roses Blog Tour. Please give a warm welcome to paranormal romance author, Lilly Gayle. Take it away, Lilly... (And readers please remember that commenting to any post on the Wild Roses Blog Tour automatically makes you eligible for our grand prize giveaway. More details here.)

Lilly Gayle is a wife, mother, mammographer, and writer of paranormal and historical romance. Out of the Darkness is her first published novel.

What compelled you to write in your chosen sub-genre? What is your favorite aspect of this type of story?

My first attempt at novel writing was a medical thriller. I thought it would be something along the lines of a Robin Cook book with more romance. It sucked. So, I trashed it, joined RWA and my local writer’s group, and started writing what I loved to read. Historical romances. Then I read Nora Robert’s vampire trilogy and got hooked on paranormals. I started writing Out of the Darkness in 2005. I submitted it to a NY publisher in 2006 and went through three sets of revision letters, two editors, and a line change before it was ultimately rejected. One of my critique partners suggested I submit the manuscript to The Wild Rose Press because they had a much faster response time than most NY publishers. I followed her advice and on mother’s day 2009, after thirteen years of serious writing, I was offered a contract.

How did you come up with the premise of Out of the Darkness?

I read Dean Koontz’s Fear Nothing and Seize the Night and fell in love with his lead character, Christopher Snow, a young man who suffered from xeroderma pigmentosum, a light sensitivity disorder. I’d never heard of XP so I went on the internet and starting doing research. I’d recently read Nora Robert’s vampire triology and was on a paranormal kick at the time and the idea of combing vampires with a real life disease sounded intriguing. So, I started jotting down notes and plot points and a story started to take shape.

What do you like most about this story?

It’s not your typical vampire romance. I came up with a scientific explanation for why vampires exist and my sexy hero, Vincent, is a tortured soul seeking a cure for his dark hunger. And unlike some other vampire romances I’ve read, the heroine, Dr. Megan Harper doesn’t want to become a vampire so she can spend eternity with the hero. She wants to cure him. I’ve thrown in some chilling villains and a mystery just to keep the story interesting.

Tell us about the heroine. How do you think readers will identify most with her?

Megan Harper is a research scientist suffering from survivor’s guilt. She knows she’s just one chromosome away from having the same light sensitivity disorder that killed her sister and she’s desperate to find a cure for xeroderma pigmentosum. So, when Vincent shows up on her doorstep wanting to see her research, she assumes he’s suffering from XP and volunteers to help. Little does she know, but she’s stepped into the dark and unseen world of vampires. But she doesn’t back away from the man she’s coming to love. She vows to find a cure for vampirism as well.

I think readers will identify with her because she’s smart, determined, and she has a big heart. Plus, she’s not some needy, clinging heroine desperate for Vincent to bite her and convert her into some undead creature just so she can be with him.

Tell us about the hero. Is he an alpha or a beta?

Vincent is a dark, brooding alpha hero but he has a vulnerable side as well. He wants to be human again and he wants to seek out and destroy those responsible for the kidnapping and torture of his friend and fellow vampire, Gerard.

What will readers like most about him?

I think readers will appreciate Vincent’s vulnerability and his desperate desire to become human. And I think they will love and respect the fact that he doesn’t want to drag Megan into his dark world.

What kind of research did you have to do for this storyline?

I have a BS degree in applied science in radiologic technology but I had to do a lot of scientific research. I had to research the light sensitivity disease, xeroderma pigmentosum (XP) and brush up on my knowledge of DNA. I also had to study laboratory procedures and protocols. It was tedious but kind of interesting at the same time.

How does this book compare with other books on your backlist or that you have written?

Out of the Darkness is my only published novel. And with the exception of a time-travel that needs some serious work, the rest of my books are historical romances. I do have a paranormal WIP dealing with psychics, but it’s in the early stages. And I’m also about half-way through writing the sequel to Out of the Darkness.

Would you like to share reviews for this work?

From Night Owl Reviews: http://www.nightowlreviews.com/nor/Reviews/Silvermage-reviews-Out-Of-The-Darkness-by-Lilly-Gayle.aspx

Out of the Darkness is a Top Pick for me. I just loved the plot and the interaction between Vincent and Megan. The sensual scenes were hot and the ending was done just right. The villains were chilling and Vincent’s history compelling. This was an action packed and exciting read.

And from Siren Books- http://sirenbookreviews.blogspot.com/2010/07/lilly-gayle-out-of-darkness.html

Lilly Gayle takes vampires to a scientific level with the incredible heroine Dr. Megan Harper. You can't help but fall in love with these characters! Plot twists and turns keep the story hopping and the pages turning.

Also from Coffee Time Romance- http://www.coffeetimeromance.com/BookReviews/outofthedarknessbylillygayle.html

Lilly Gayle presents in a detailed, accurate manner a rational paranormal romance. The two main characters in this story jump right off the pages and engage the reader. Who cannot feel for a sexy vampire with a conscience? How can you keep from falling head over heels for this ultimate, sensitive, bad boy? And if that isn't enough to make your heart flip, what about when he admires her gray hairs? Megan is such an easy woman to relate to; she is heartbroken and strong, lonely and independent….. This is a must-read for those who like their paranormals to feel entirely possible.

Now for the fun part of the Q&A! What is your zodiac and what is it telling you today?

I’m an Aries. And yes, I am as stubborn as the sign says. Lol!

Today’s horoscope: Wednesday, Aug 25th, 2010 -- Intensity rises today as the critical Virgo Sun creates a powerful trine with mysterious Pluto, shining the brilliance of awareness into the shadowy depths of our hidden feelings. We are driven by unconscious urges to get to the bottom of what's happening. The dreamy Pisces Moon also motivates us to concentrate on the richness of archetypal symbols. The difference between myth and reality is heightened when the Moon opposes logical Mercury midday.

Odd, that my horoscope mentions myths as we discuss my vampire paranormal. Guess it will be a good day to work on the sequel.

If you could set a story in your real-life setting, what would it be? Heartfelt contemporary, high-flying fantasy, or steamy romantic suspense?

I’m not real keen on doing real life but while I was undergoing treatments for breast cancer in 2007, I did keep a blog. And one of these days, I would like to turn those blogs into a story. And believe me, my husband would be the hero. He was incredibly supportive and loving through my ordeal and I fell in love with him all over again. This past June, we celebrated our 30th wedding anniversary.

If you were a mixed drink, what would you be and why?

A Long Island Ice Tea, because I’m emotionally strong and a nice mix of a different personality traits.

What recent read would you recommend?

Virgina Kantra’s Close Up. It’s one of her older books but the last one I read. Virginia is one of my mentors and I love everything she rights. She has a paranormal series that’s on my “must read” list.

What is your favorite smell and what makes it significant?

The sweet smell of a freshly bathed baby. Babies are so sweet and innocent and they have their entire lives ahead of them. Adventure, love, and laughter await!

And last but not least, if you found the Mirror of Erised from Harry Potter and the Sorcerer’s Stone, what would you see in it? (Note: If you aren't an HP junkie like me, the Mirror of Erised is a magical object that is inscribed “I show not your face, but your heart’s desire.” Orphaned Harry sees his parents, his friend Ron sees himself distinguished as Head Boy and Quidditch Captain, and Albus Dumbledore supposedly sees himself with a pair of socks.)

I see myself living at the beach, writing full time from my ocean view deck. I see myself as a multi-published author earning more from my books than I ever earned as a radiologic technologist or mammograhper. That, is my heart’s desire.

Would you like to share an excerpt from Out of the Darkness with readers today?

I’d love to!

He leaned in, his arm snaking around her waist, pulling her closer. Her muscles strained,
but she didn’t resist as he drew her in and slowly lowered his head.

“And would you have put me in your sister’s bed?” He raised a finger to trace the outline of her mouth.

She trembled, her breath escaping her parted lips in a breathy sigh. Warm air brushed his fingertips, stirring his senses. Heating his blood.

“I don’t know.” Her breasts rose and fell with each shuddering breath she took, her soft curves
brushing the hard wall of his chest.

She pulled her plump bottom lip between her teeth and looked up with pleading eyes. Eyes that
begged him to make the decision for her.

Blood rushed to his groin, awakening an insatiable hunger, but not for blood. For the taste
of her lips. Just one taste. A taste that would haunt him in his dreams as the last one had. He groaned.

And lowered his mouth to hers.

Her lips parted, and God help him, she responded just as she had that first time. She melted against him, pulling his head closer, taking his tongue deep inside until he was hot and straining against her.

She tasted so damn good. A heady mix of wine and woman. Mortal woman.

Warm blooded, mortal woman.

You can learn more about my book at: http://www.lillygayle.com/ I also blog at http://www.lillygayleromance.com/. Out of the Darkness is available in both print and e-book format The Wild Rose Press, Digi Book Cafe, and Kindle:

Her research could cure his dark hunger if a covert government agent doesn’t get to her first.

Vincent Maxwell is a vampire with a conscience searching for a cure to his dark hunger. But when a scientist looking to create vampire soldiers captures and kills a fellow vampire, Vincent seeks out Dr. Megan Harper. While researching xeroderm pigmentosum, a light sensitivity disorder, Dr.Harper discovered a link to vampirism and she could hold a key to a cure and the answers to Gerard’s death. But getting close to the beautiful scientist could endanger both their lives.

When researcher Dr. Megan Harper meets Vincent Maxwell, she believes he suffers from xeroderma pigmentosum, the genetic disease that killed her sister. Sensing a deep loneliness within the handsome man, Megan offers friendship and access to her research files hoping he will offer her a position in his company. But they soon become more than friends and Megan learns the horrifying truth. She's entered the dark and unseen world of vampires and Vincent is her only hope of survival.

Paperback Up for Grabs at Alternative Read

Today the Ridges of Wayback, Texas are featured at Alternative Read in celebration of their upcoming audio-book debut. Read three steamy excerpts and enter to win a trade paperback edition of The Way Back Home anthology - which includes Book I in the Wayback Ridge Trilogy and 1st Place More Than Magic Novella, Blackest Heart.

Wild Roses Blog Tour: Lauri Robinson

The Wild Roses Blog Tour continues with western romance author Lauri Robinson.... (Comment to today's post and any other Wild Roses Blog Tour post at these participating authors' blogs and be entered to win a giveaway basket!)

Lauri Robinson lives in rural Minnesota where she and her husband spend every spare moment with their three grown sons and five grandchildren. She works part time for the local United Way , volunteers for several organizations, and is a diehard Elvis and NASCAR fan. Lauri has over a dozen books and novellas on the market.

What compelled you to write in your chosen sub-genre? What is your favorite aspect of this type of story?

I write historical romances because I always wanted to grow up and marry Little Joe Cartwright. (Me and about a million other girls.) Something about Little Joe just made my heart somersault. Perhaps his graceful and casual swagger or flashy, cocky smile, I don’t really know, but he portrayed an image that sticks with me to this day. Western historical romances deliver that kind of hero. They’re always somewhat worldly, yet down home good—full of fiery pioneer spirit, yet hold the class of a refined, passionate gentleman.

How did you come up with the premise of Boot Hill Bride? What do you like most about this story?

Boot Hill Bride, which was released in April, is the third book in the Quinter Brides Series. Its set in Dodge City in the 1880’s, and is about Hog, or Howard Quinter and his ‘shotgun’ bride Randilynn. From the time I wrote the first Quinter Bride book, I knew Hog’s story would be about him opening a restaurant. My favorite part of this book was how Hog and Randi relationship bloomed.

Tell us about the heroine. How do you think readers will identify most with her?

Randilynn Fulton has been a lost soul for years, and I believe readers will identify with her journey in realizing her own self worth.

Tell us about the hero. Is he an alpha or a beta? What will readers like most about him?

Hog is a thoughtful man, and he needed time to fall in love with his bride. I think readers will like how genuinely he cares about Randi even before they fall in love.

What kind of research did you have to do for this storyline?

Since Randi’s father has political aspirations, I had to do a lot of research on all of the political parties back then and their beliefs.

How does this book compare with other books on your backlist or that you have written?

With each book in this series, I’ve enjoyed the opportunity to include the rest of the family. It’s kind of like a family reunion.


Would you like to share reviews for this work?

Long and Short Reviews gave it 4.5 books and nominated it for book of the week. http://longandshortreviews.blogspot.com/2010/06/boot-hill-bride-by-lauri-robinson.html

And Night Owl Reviews gave it the Top Pick award. http://www.nightowlromance.com/nor/Reviews/Zollyanna-reviews-Boot-Hill-Bride-by-Lauri-Robinson.aspx

Now for the fun part of the Q&A! What is your zodiac and what is it telling you today?

Libra. Today it said I won’t want to miss a moment of the great day the universe is bringing.

If you could set a story in your real-life setting, what would it be? Heartfelt contemporary, high-flying fantasy, or steamy romantic suspense?

Heartfelt contemporary that includes a cowboy.

Nice! If you were a mixed drink, what would you be and why?

I have no idea. I’m pretty common, and down to earth, so maybe something simple like gin and tonic.

Or a Shirley Temple, like me? ;) What recent read would you recommend?

The book I just finished last night was A McKettrick Christmas by Linda Lael-Miller. I love all her books.

What is your favorite smell and what makes it significant?

Lily’s of the Valley. I’ve had them outside my front door for over 25 years.

And last but not least, if you found the Mirror of Erised from Harry Potter and the Sorcerer’s Stone, what would you see in it? (Note: If you aren't an HP junkie like me, the Mirror of Erised is a magical object that is inscribed “I show not your face, but your heart’s desire.” Orphaned Harry sees his parents, his friend Ron sees himself distinguished as Head Boy and Quidditch Captain, and Albus Dumbledore supposedly sees himself with a pair of socks.)

Thanks for the explanation! It would be me reading a book to my granddaughters.

That's lovely! Would you like to share an excerpt from Boot Hill Bride with readers today?

Even sitting here, stinging from the cold of the night, his fingers tingled, wanting to touch her silky skin, caress the curve of her back and examine those perfect dimples—

“Holy shit!” Snake exclaimed under his breath.

Howard snapped his head up. Both of his brothers stared over his shoulders, their mouths agape, and their eyes as round as biscuits.

“What?” he asked, twisting his neck to follow the trail of their gazes. His jaw went lax, the bottom of his chin all but slapped against his chest. The sight he stared at knocked the air out of him harder than being thrown off a wild bucking bronc.

Inside the canvas, the flickering light of the lantern made his tent glow brighter than the moon.

The white, heavy tarp had become pale yellow, and a dark silhouette moved about inside the gently billowing sides. It was a moment before his eyes locked on the shadow and registered what he saw, sending the impulse to his brain.

Randi was undressing, and the light projected each movement against the canvas screen more clearly than the finest painter could create. Her graceful, womanly profile moved with perfection as she drew her gown over her head. The contours of her breasts, flat stomach, the inward arch of her lower back, and her long, slender legs became clearly visible to onlookers.

“Shit!” Howard leaped to his feet. Almost as an afterthought, he grabbed the hat off his head and swiped it at both of his brothers, knocking theirs askew. “Turn around!” he demanded before storming off toward his tent.

Jogging across the grass, he shouted, “Randi! Randi! Dowse the light!”

The silhouette inside stalled.

“Dowse the light!” he repeated.

Thank you so much for sharing with us Cozies today, Lauri! Readers, you can pick up your copy of of Boot Hill Bride in ebook or paperback today at The Wild Rose Press:

Howard (Hog) Quinter is hell bent on getting The Majestic, the finest hotel and restaurant west of the Mississippi , open by May 1st. The last thing he needs is interference from his family, but that’s exactly what he gets when Ma Quinter strikes one brisk morning. Sound asleep, Howard rolls over to discover a lovely young woman lying beside him, however, standing at the foot of the bed are his mother, the girl's father, and a blubbering preacher reading wedding nuptials.

Randilynn Fulton runs from a forced marriage to her aunt in Dodge City , only to discover Aunt Corrine is one of Danny J’s brothel girls. If she stays, Randi may become one as well, which would damage her father's chance at running for the Governor’s seat. But it gets worse when she finds herself in the middle of what she ran from—a shotgun wedding, and she’s the bride.

How a Trilogy is Made...

Ever wonder how a trilogy is made? How about a family saga? I'm spilling all the deets about the Ridges of Wayback, Texas today at Nana Malone's blog!

Tomorrow at The Cozy Page historical western romance author Lauri Robinson will be my latest guest on the Wild Roses Blog Tour. Stay tuned for more on her latest book, Boot Hill Bride, and more details on how you could win an awesome prize basket!

The Ridges Go Audible

The latest news off The Wild Rose Press news reel is that the Wayback Ridge Trilogy will be published as audio books by Audio Lark! On September 7, Blackest Heart (1st Place More Than Magic Novella) will debut as an audible, followed by Bluest Heart on September 14, and Bet It On My Heart on September 21.

I love audio books and can't wait until September! In fact, this feels like a good excuse to bring out my fun interview with the Ridges, originally posted over at The Roses of Prose. Enjoy!

ALW: Hi readers! We’re super-excited to be conducting our first character interview from my most recent release, Bet It On My Heart, here this week. Right, Keefe?

Keefe: *props booted feet on tabletop and crosses arms over chest, making himself cozy* You bet. It’s nice to sit down with pretty ladies after a hard day’s work on the ranch. *winks*

Calli: Ahem!

Keefe: *jerks, straightens* Hey, baby! When did you get here?

Calli: *sweeps his boots off the table* Just stopped by to remind you to behave yourself, cowpoke. *leans down to kiss him, fighting a smile* Sorry, I can’t stay, readers. I did bring reinforcements, though.

Casey: *cracks open a beer, sits next to Keefe* Hey, big brother!

Keefe: Ah, hell.

Stella: *smirks, takes off her Stetson* We so weren’t gonna miss this. It’s not everyday the playboy of Wayback gets a good grillin’

Keefe: *looks beseechingly to Calli* Where are you going? Can I come?

Calli: *laughs* I’ll be back later. If you’re good, I’ll give you a treat.

Casey: *cough, cough*

Stella: TMI!

Keefe: *grins* Carry on.

ALW: Alrighty then. Your story is the third in the Ridge family trilogy, which some found surprising, considering that you are the oldest of the bunch.

Stella: Mine and Judd’s story came first because we all know I’m the most mature.

Keefe & Casey: Yeah, right!

Casey: I would’ve settled down first if Josie hadn’t dug in her heels.

Josie: *from another room* I HEARD THAT!

Casey: YOU KNOW I LOVE YOU, BABY!

Keefe: *cough* Whipped! *cough, cough*

Stella: *intervenes as Casey makes a swipe for Keefe* Thank you for proving my point, boys.

ALW: Ahem. Anyway. In Stella and Casey’s stories, you made it clear, Keefe, that you weren’t the marrying kind of man. What changed?

Casey: A Yankee.

Keefe: *glares at his brother* Hey, I think her accent’s sexy as hell.

ALW: Stella, Calli is a longtime friend of yours. What do you think attracted Keefe to her?

Stella: I’d just like to say, for the record, I knew all along that these two were going to end up together.

Keefe & Casey: Yeah, right!

Stella: *rolls her eyes* It’s like two parrots. And I was the one who dared Calli to stay in Wayback for two weeks. She and Keefe hit it off right away.

Keefe: You said it: two weeks. It wasn’t supposed to be anything more than a temporary fling.

Calli: *from another room* Hey, cowpoke, I haven’t left yet!

Keefe: *cringes* I LOVE YOU!

Casey: *makes whipping motion* WHA-POW!

ALW: *raises her hands before Keefe and Casey have a chance to throw down* All right, already! I think we saw enough brawling in Stella’s story.

Casey: I had nothing to do with that.

Keefe: Because Judd and I are the only ones man enough to take a fist in the face.

Stella: If by man you mean caveman, then for once you’d be right.

ALW: Here’s a thought: how ‘bout I ask questions and you answer them like civilized adults.

Keefe, Casey, Stella: *look dubiously at one another* Nah.

ALW: *sighs* See what I have to deal with, readers? Stella, would it be too much for you to succinctly answer my previous question?

Stella: *flips long, blonde hair over her shoulder* Well, for starters, Calli’s a real ball-buster.

Keefe: *chokes on a swallow of beer*

Calli: *laughs uproariously from the other room* Thanks, Stell!

Keefe: *frowns* Seriously, when is she leaving?

Stella: Notice he doesn’t deny it.

Casey: *nods* Keefe was all about brainless bombshells before Calli knocked him on his ass. He’d never come across a woman of substance before.

Calli: Aw, Case! I could kiss you!

Casey: Anytime, honey.

Keefe: *glares* [CENSORED]

ALW: I apologize, ladies. I am now considering killing him off in an unforeseen sequel.

Keefe: *sets down his beer* Ah, come on, sweetheart. You know you love me.

ALW: No comment.

Casey: Hey, by the way, which one of us is your favorite?

Stella: *leans forward* It’s me, right? I was first.

Casey: Nah, it’s me. She told all those interviewers I was the charming one.

Keefe: *winks* And she told them I’m…what was it? “The quintessential cowboy?” And she loves her cowboys.

ALW: I will NOT answer that question.

Judd: *enters, grins at ALW* Hey. Sorry I’m late.

ALW: *blushes red, simpers* Glad you could join us!

Keefe & Casey: *faces falling* HIM?

Judd: *loops thumbs in belt loops, leans back against the wall, looks smug*

Casey: Don’t you love me anymore?

ALW: I love all of you!

Keefe: What’s so great about Judd?

ALW: *shrugs* Perhaps because he doesn’t talk back or interrupt. And everybody loves a silent cowboy. *flutters her lashes*

Keefe & Casey: *groan, mutter*

Stella: *meets Judd’s smoldering gaze, props her chin in hand and smiles* I’m the one who gets to take him home.

Casey: Er, ew.

Keefe: Now wait a minute. Judd may not know how to dish it out—

Judd: Hey, cowpoke. Eat me.

Stella: Oh, I love it when you talk dirty.

ALW: Yes. Please keep going.

Casey: This must be what an embolism feels like.

Keefe: Ahem. As I was saying, all the ladies might think Judd’s the cute, cuddly one—

Judd: 1st Place More Than Magic Novella.

Keefe: Best Book of the Week at LASR. Voted by the readers, my man.

ALW: Get to the point.

Keefe: Yeah, Judd, aren’t you supposed to be silent?

Casey: I don’t think he has a point.

Keefe: I’m getting to it. Judd may be loveable and Casey may be the charming do-gooder boy or whatever, but I’m the only hero who made the big, sweeping, romantic gesture. I got down on my knees and begged.

Stella: And you think that’s good for your image?

Keefe: It makes me more a hero than either of them.

Calli: He has a point!

ALW: Yes, surprisingly, he does.

Judd & Casey: Hey!

ALW: *gulps* I think we’ve taken up enough of the readers' time. Thanks again for having us. And so sorry about the expletives.

Keefe: *smirks* I’ll make sure Calli gives me a good whippin’.

Calli: *cackles* Yeah, you bet, readers!

Casey: Oh, for crying out loud!

ALW: *raises voice to cut them off* If you’d like to find out more about the Ridge family saga, visit them on the web! You can purchase all three novellas now at The Wild Rose Press: Blackest Heart (Stella & Judd’s story) for $3.00; Bluest Heart (Casey & Josie’s story) for $3.75; and Bet It On My Heart (Keefe & Calli’s story) for $4.00! You can get the whole trilogy for just $10.75! And you can also now own Blackest Heart in paperback in the Wayback anthology The Way Back Home!

Now on Goodreads!

I did it, something I should've done a long time ago - I joined the community of Goodreads online. Readers can connect with me there by friending me. I update my status and blog regularly and have even posted book videos for followers. Check it out! I'd love to see you there :)

Party at the Sizzlers!

It may be Friday the 13th but I'm throwing superstition aside and partying at the Southern Sizzlers' 1st Anniversary celebration. Join the fun and read other anniversary posts by Sourcebooks Casablanca editor Deb Werksman, Kensington Brava editor Megan Records, bestselling romantic suspense author Cynthia Eden, Golden Heart nominee and inspirational romance author Cara Lynn James, and many more!

4 Angels for BET IT ON MY HEART!

Diana P of Fallen Angel Reviews gives Bet It On My Heart 4/5 Angels:

Tempers flare but hearts win out in Bet It on My Heart.

Amber Leigh Williams does a fantastic job mixing former characters into this current storyline. They are all loveable and frustrating just like real family members. I enjoyed the chemistry and sexual tension between Calli and Keefe.

This is an HEA read you can bet on.

Thank you, Diana, for a lovely review! Readers, you can read the full review at FAR! Learn more about Bet It On My Heart in today's interview at Christine DePetrillo's blog. Purchase the book for just $4.00 (as well as Books I & II of the Wayback Ridge trilogy) at The Wild Rose Press!

Wild Roses Blog Tour: Catherine Bybee

Onward goes the Wild Roses Blog Tour, today with historical romance author Catherine Bybee, author of Silent Vows:

Catherine Bybee is a number one selling author of paranormal romance. Her latest release, Binding Vows has hit the top 100 list at Amazon's Time Travel Romance. Her book trailers have won top honors at You Gotta Read Reviews Best Book Trailer Awards.

A wife and a mother of two boys, one fourteen the other eleven, is busy with countless hours of volunteer work, writing and a career as an ER Nurse.

(Note: by commenting to today's post and any other Wild Roses Blog Tour post, you are automatically entered to win our giveaway basket. More on participating authors on yesterday's post....)

Hi Catherine! Lovely to have you here at The Cozy Page! What compelled you to write in your chosen sub-genre? What is your favorite aspect of this type of story?

I fell in love with historical romance long ago. I easily pictured myself in the shoes of those heroines and always wanted to write time travel romance. The romantic in me was born in the wrong time. My favorite aspect in a time travel is the differences between today’s woman, and the one of long ago. In a perfect time travel, that one person meshes into one wonderful character.

How did you come up with the premise of Silent Vows ? What do you like most about this story?

When I was writing the first book in this trilogy, Binding Vows, my hero’s sister, Myra , is forced to go forward in time. I knew the moment she ‘hit the time traveling road’ that I’d be writing the second book. What I love most about this story is how the whole family is thrust into the mix and the single story becomes a saga.

Tell us about the heroine. How do you think readers will identify most with her?

This is actually a difficult question for me. This heroine is from the past, but her zest for life is something that my reader will easily see and love. She is exactly what our hero needs to slap out of his comfortable life.

Tell us about the hero. Is he an alpha or a beta? What will readers like most about him?

Both… and how many can say that about their heroes? Todd is a 21st century cop and in this time, he is alpha all the way. But what happens when that same cop is stuck in a time of swords and in this case, magic? He’s out of his realm and is forced into a bit of a beta role, but not so much that you think less of him. It’s a fine line that I think everyone will simply love about him.

What kind of research did you have to do for this storyline?

Oh, my… how long do we have for this interview? Short answer… tons. I live in So. California and I’ve worked in the ER most of my adult life, so I’ve met my share of police officers. Working Myra ’s story in was the easy part…the rest of this story took some time. I’ve not been to Scotland and I don’t practice any sort of spells and such, so I did spend a lot of time online looking up some simple facts.

How does this book compare with other books on your backlist or that you have written?

This is a second book to a trilogy, so it is right in line with the other two. My werewolf stories are completely different. And needless to say, my erotic time travels in kilts are ‘erotic first’ romance a very close second.

Would you like to share reviews for this work?

This is a review from a Goodreads fan who I’ve recently met when she drove 2 hours to visit me at a book signing for Binding Vows. Tammy has since become someone I talk to quite often, and I value her opinion. And if you were to look at all her reviews of my work, you’ll find that she isn’t always free to praise. If she doesn’t like a book, she’ll tell me! LOL

It is seldom you will see me gush in a review, especially historical romance. Well, let the gushing begin! "Silent Vows" earns an unequivocal five stars because it is just that much fun to read!

The story is the second in a series and starts with the heroine, Myra , time traveling from medieval Scotland to present day L.A. escaping an evil that wants to destroy both her and her family. It incorporates contemporary and historical romance then adds suspense, with a touch of fantasy, flawlessly. Even the sex scenes didn't put me off, I skipped them, not because I was offended but because they just slowed me down, I was so anxious to see what happened next! The plot is believable, the characters deftly written, the nuances of both times perfectly on point and the suspense is page-turning. What more could one ask?

It is a light, fun, absorbing read that disappoints only because it ends. My one caution would be not to pick it up without an afternoon to finish, the result would be extreme frustration!

Now for the fun part of the Q&A! What is your zodiac and what is it telling you today?

*snort – Taurus and I’ve no idea what that is telling me. Grin – Do you know?

Actually, yes - I'm a Taurus, too: "New alliances will introduce you to a new way of socializing. Expect to be courted." New alliances and socializing... Hm, I'd look for the Gemini :)

If you could set a story in your real-life setting, what would it be? Heartfelt contemporary, high-flying fantasy, or steamy romantic suspense?

Housewives of… lol – A story about overcoming odds with a white knight.

If you were a mixed drink, what would you be and why?

Lol – Raspberry Martini – Sweet with a lot of bite

What recent read would you recommend?

Oh, this is hard… I really like the Sentinel Wars series from Shannon K. Butcher

What is your favorite smell and what makes it significant?

Baked pumpkin pie – Home, family, love.

And last but not least, if you found the Mirror of Erised from Harry Potter and the Sorcerer’s Stone, what would you see in it? (Note: If you aren't an HP junkie like me, the Mirror of Erised is a magical object that is inscribed “I show not your face, but your heart’s desire.” Orphaned Harry sees his parents, his friend Ron sees himself distinguished as Head Boy and Quidditch Captain, and Albus Dumbledore supposedly sees himself with a pair of socks.)

A warm blanket - *hard question and I’m not a fan. For shame, I know.

Nothing wrong with a warm blanket! Thank you so much for sharing with us Cozies today, Catherine! Would you like to share an excerpt from Silent Vows with readers today?

Of course:

“I want you,” he whispered in her hair, not willing to break their contact.

She stiffened when his words registered. “I don’t—”

“You want the same thing, Myra. Don’t try and deny it.”

"I don’t know what I want. I’ve not ever...” She didn’t finish her sentence.

"Not ever what?”

“No one has ever kissed me the way you do. Let alone anything more.”

A virgin? Was that even possible? “You mean you’ve never...?”

“Never.” She lowered her head and removed her hands from his shoulders.

“Hey.” He caught her gaze. “It’s nothing to be embarrassed about.” He kissed her again, briefly, then placed a protective arm over her shoulders and walked her home. “So are the men in Scotland blind?”

She laughed. “Nay.”

"What then?”

"My father is very protective.”

“Does your father know you’re here?”

"Much to his dismay, but we had no choice.”

Interesting, a protective father who sent his daughter away to a different country without any money. Something wasn’t lining up.

They were within a block of his home when Myra stiffened, and all color washed from her face. She stopped and spun in a slow circle.

“What is it?”

“Someone is watching us.”

“Some of the neighbors are busybodies.”

“No, Todd. The one who watches wants more than to gossip.”

Now the hair on his neck stood on end.

You can pick up your copy of Silent Vows in print - or catch up by reading Binding Vows in digital or print at The Wild Rose Press:

Myra, a medieval virgin druidess, flees five hundred years into the future to escape death at the hands of a cursed witch and lands in the arms of a handsome but cynical twenty-first century cop.
Officer Todd Blakely knows Myra is hiding something , but can't resist her innocent charms. Destiny throws them both into a world of intrigue and mysticism. Can Todd be the true white knight she needs? Or will magic and the winds of time tear them apart?

More August Events

As many of you have already guessed, I am a participating author in the Wild Roses Blog Tour! To kick it off last Wednesday, I stopped by Maya Blake's to chat about the paranormal. This Monday I interviewed Sandra Sookoo here at The Cozy Page and tomorrow Catherine Bybee will be here to answer more of my strangely relevant questions about her latest historical romance. Tomorrow I will be at my second stop on the blog tour at Christine DePetrillo's site digging deeper into my latest western romance, Bet It On My Heart, and love scenes. I'm sharing all this because at the end of August when the tour comes to a close, one commenter of the Wild Roses Blog Tour will win a basket of goodies from participating authors, including a digital edition of Bet It On My Heart! The more you comment, the more chances you have to win so here's the complete list of authors on the Wild Roses Blog Tour....

Aileen Harkwood
Amber Leigh Williams
Caroline Clemmons
Catherine Bybee
Christine DePetrillo
Lauri Robinson
Lilly Gayle
Maya Blake
Rae Summers
Sandra Sookoo

And don't forget there's even more goodies to be won at Long & Short Reviews this month - one of three Nooks, in fact. Click on the Nook graphic at right for more info on the LASR 3rd Anniversary Party scavenger hunt. Nooks include a $50 gift certificate to BarnesandNoble.com and a great list of pre-loaded ebooks, including LASR Best Book of 2009 Nominee Forever Amore!

Neither is an extravaganza to be missed, and with all this free stuff flying around, August is a great month for readers! And don't forget this Friday, the 13th, I'll be joining the 1st Anniversary party of the Southern Sizzlers. See you there!

Wild Roses Blog Tour: Sandra Sookoo

Today The Cozy Page takes part in an exciting new virtual tour called the Wild Roses Blog Tour! My first guest is fellow TWRP author Sandra Sookoo, whose latest release, Wedgie Tales and Panty Lines is now available in paperback....

Sandra is a writer of romantic fiction. Her portfolio includes historical, contemporary, sci-fi and paranormal romances. She loves to blend genres and spice them up and often times will add humor as well.

After catching the writing bug at the young age of ten, she’s gone on to grow her unique writing style. She’s a regular contributor for the Paranormal Romantic’s blog and has a great time keeping things interesting at the Believing is Seeing blog.

When not immersed in creating new worlds and interesting characters, Sandra likes to read, bake and travel. Her favorite place to spend vacation hours is Walt Disney World. It’s where dreams come true and the soul can play. That suits her just fine.

Writing is her ultimate dream job.

Welcome, Sandra! What compelled you to write in your chosen sub-genre? What is your favorite aspect of this type of story?

LOL I don’t know that contemporary is my “chosen” genre. I love writing across genres because it keeps my brain fresh and the readers interested. My favorite aspect for this book? That almost every woman can relate to a part of it.

How did you come up with the premise of Wedgie Tales and Panty Lines? What do you like most about this story?

I like most that there’s a lot of me in the heroine Kate. Actually, I’ll bet there’s a lot of every woman in this book. I liked best the aspect of using underwear as a life correlation.

Tell us about the heroine. How do you think readers will identify most with her?

My heroine’s name is Kate. Just Kate. She’s an average-sized woman living an average life. What she really wants is to be loved for herself, which is what I think most women want regardless of their walk in life.

Tell us about the hero. Is he an alpha or a beta? What will readers like most about him?

The hero’s name is Bryan. Since this story is told in the first person, this book is not really about him, although he is the catalyst for the change in Kate.

Here’s the blurb: When unassuming mail room worker Kate Little agrees to become an underwear tester for a marketing company, things get uncomfortable fast. Not only has she never worn “fancy” underpants before, she has to work closely with handsome marketing manager Bryan Eddleman and that’s enough to keep her in a constant state of confusion.

Trouble is Bryan’s competing with another manager for a promotion that hinges on the results of the test group. Kate can’t determine if his sudden interest is really in her or her surprisingly insightful weekly reports on foundation garments.

Add a jealous co-worker out to sabotage Kate’s budding love life, an overly helpful gay friend with nothing better to do than shove her into Bryan’s arms, and a rambunctious teacup dog to the chaos and you’ll have a typical day in Kate’s less than ordinary life.

The last thing she needs is panty lines.

What kind of research did you have to do for this storyline?

LOL Not a whole lot, actually. It’s set in modern day Indianapolis, Indiana which is my stomping ground anyway. Most of the places in this book are actual places that I’ve been to many times.

How does this book compare with other books on your backlist or that you have written?

This is only the 2nd book I’ve written using the first person. In the contemporary genre, I have a few out there. Sometime next year I’d love to write a sequel to this book.

Now for the fun part of the Q&A! What is your zodiac and what is it telling you today?

I’m a Leo. It says my career is lighting up today LOL I sure hope that’s true!

If you could set a story in your real-life setting, what would it be? Heartfelt contemporary, high-flying fantasy, or steamy romantic suspense?

LOL Oh goodness. I draw a lot on my real life experiences for a good portion of my books anyway so that would be too hard to answer.

And last but not least, if you found the Mirror of Erised from Harry Potter and the Sorcerer’s Stone, what would you see in it? (Note: If you aren't an HP junkie like me, the Mirror of Erised is a magical object that is inscribed “I show not your face, but your heart’s desire.” Orphaned Harry sees his parents, his friend Ron sees himself distinguished as Head Boy and Quidditch Captain, and Albus Dumbledore supposedly sees himself with a pair of socks.)

Nice question! I think I would like to see myself in the New York publishing scene, only not as an author particularly, but as an editor. Would I like to have a book or two out with a New York publishers? Absolutely! And it’s still a goal. Recently, though, I think it might be fun to be an editor. Imagine the things I could learn!

Would you like to share an excerpt from Wedgie Tales and Panty Lines with readers today?

Panty Truth #7 according to Kate: A woman’s mood and her underpants often go hand in hand.

If I wanted to impress you with my job, I’d tell you I’m vital to the success of the garment industry. But, since you wouldn’t be impressed, no matter how great the spin, I’ll tell you the truth.

I test lingerie—panties specifically.

That’s right. My marketing company receives samples of all the new underwear released to the public, and I’m the lucky girl who gets to test them. Briefs, hipsters, thongs—I try them all on and wear them for a day to make sure they’re the comfortable and practical items their manufacturers claim.

It’s not as glamorous as it sounds. And the labels? Those colorful, flashy printed blurbs that promise to give you a fantastic life, white teeth, perfect figure, and an instant boyfriend if you wear their products? They lie.

Let me tell you a few stories, and then you can make your own decision.

Thank you for sharing with us today, Sandra! Cozies, find out more about Sandra at her website. Wedgie Tales and Panty Lines is available now in paperback from The Wild Rose Press. Watch the book video here. And check back in Wednesday for my second guest on the Wild Roses Blog Tour!

Confessions of a Night Writer + BOOK GIVEAWAY

Hi readers! Join me today at Kelly L. Stone's new site. I'm celebrating the release of her latest book, Living Write, by discussing my nocturnal writing habits. Join in the fun by telling me what your most creative hours of the day are and enter to win a book of your choice from my backlist!